Reaching new heights

Posted Tuesday 26 June 2012

Last weekend (Saturday 2 June), I did something, people who know me well thought it was; well, a little "out of character".

I took part in a 10,000ft skydive in aid of Mind.

I am by no means an adrenaline junkie. I'm not keen on fast speeds, or heights - I've never been on a rollercoaster.

However, I am really interested in raising awareness for Mind – no one should have to face a mental health problem alone.

So if jumping out of a plane was going to raise some awareness, and cash for Mind, I thought it sounded like a cool thing to do.

One grey January day, I signed myself up and tried to convince myself it is all very exciting, rather than the scariest thing I could think of.

Only it isn't really the scariest thing I can think of. It can't be as daunting as my own experiences of depression, or some of the moments growing up with a bipolar parent, and feeling helpless as friends have struggled with their own mental health problems.

I have been really fortunate to have a supportive family and circle of friends, but Mind has been an invaluable source of clear and impartial information, and reassurance.

So the day of the dive arrived. Suited and harnessed up, the lovely Shane (who had jumped 2,000 times) reassured me that it was going to be fine, and most of all fun.

After getting in the plane and ascending to 10,000 ft, I was still not convinced. But then the door opened, and fully attached to Shane, with no more time for thinking – I just started screaming.

Freefalling one mile out of the sky is an unforgettable experience. The parachute went up, and suddenly I was gliding over the lush English countryside, feeling overwhelmed but surprisingly relaxed!

After a smooth landing, I was feeling rather wobbly but ultimately buzzing. Skydiving is an absolutely amazing experience, and skydiving for Mind even better – knowing you’re doing it for a cause you feel strongly about really does add to the excitement.

So if you’re thinking about it, sign up, because scary as it seems, it is amazing and you’ll probably want to do it again!

Nia Lonergan

Would you like to skydive for Mind? If you agree to raise a minimum of £395 for us, your skydive will be free.

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1 Comment

• claire replied on 27 Jun 2012 at 13:32

  OH MY GOD!!!! That's amazing! You should be soooo proud of yourself! Massive props to you!